At approximately 60 PureGym locations across New York and New Jersey, a novel entry system is causing confusion and raising concerns among members. The gyms, formerly Blink Fitness locations acquired by PureGym about a year ago, now require members to use their smartphones to access the facilities via a narrow, enclosed plastic pod.

The system necessitates members to tap their phones to unlock the first door of the pod, step inside, and then wait for the second door to open before gaining entry to the gym. The process is repeated upon exiting. While this type of entry system is common in European PureGym locations, its introduction in the United States has led to complaints and even prompted responses from the Fire Department.

PureGym's Chief Executive, Clive Chesser, stated that the doors are intended to "ensure only our members can access the gym, and we know who's in the gym at any given time." This enhanced security measure, according to Chesser, allows for better control and monitoring of gym access.

However, some members find the new system unsettling. Emily Fish, a 30-year-old tutor and PureGym member in Park Slope, Brooklyn, described the doors as "a surprisingly negative way to enter a space of any kind." Fish also expressed concern about the possibility of being trapped inside the pod and noted the inconvenience of needing a smartphone for entry. "I would love to come to the gym without my phone, but I can't, because I need it to get in," she said.

The implementation of this technology raises questions about the balance between security and user experience. The system utilizes a form of access control, a technology increasingly common in various sectors, from office buildings to data centers. Access control systems often employ algorithms to verify identity and grant or deny entry based on pre-defined rules. In PureGym's case, the system relies on smartphone authentication, a method that leverages the unique identifiers of a user's device to confirm membership.

The use of such systems also raises broader societal implications related to data privacy and surveillance. While PureGym asserts that the system is primarily for security, the collection of data on gym entry and exit times could potentially be used for other purposes, such as tracking member behavior or targeted advertising. The increasing reliance on technology for everyday tasks, including gym access, highlights the growing importance of digital literacy and awareness of data privacy issues.

The situation at PureGym underscores the challenges of integrating new technologies into established environments. While the company aims to improve security and member management, the implementation has faced resistance due to unfamiliarity and perceived inconvenience. The company has not yet announced any plans to modify the system or address the concerns raised by members. The ongoing transition of Blink Fitness locations to the PureGym brand will likely continue to be monitored by both members and industry observers.